Jesus Heals

The following pictures are by
nubiagroup.blogspot.com

The pictures are by http://nubiagroup.blogspot.com/

WHEN GENEROSITY ABOUNDS

IF YOU had the opportunity to present a gift to a king, what would you give him? What if he were the wealthiest and wisest ruler in the world? Could you think of any gift that would please him? Some three thousand years ago, the queen of Sheba had to ponder those questions while preparing to visit just such a ruler -King Solomon of Israel.

Her gift, the Bible tells us, included 120 talents of gold "and a very great deal of balsam oil and precious stones." At today's prices, the gold alone was worth about $40, 000,000. Balsam oil, an aromatic and medicinal oil, was ranked with gold as a precious commodity. While the Bible does not say how much oil the queen gave Solomon, it does tell us that her gift remained unequaled. -1 Kings 10:10.

The queen of Sheba was obviously a wealthy and generous woman. What is more, her generosity was returned to her. "King Solomon," the Bible says, "gave the queen of Sheba all her delight for which she had asked,besides the value of what she brought to the king." (2 Chronicles 9:12) True, it may have been the custom for royalty to exchange gifts; yet, the Bible specifically mentions Solomon's "openhandedness." ( 1Kings10:13) Solomon himself wrote: "The generous soul will itself be made fat, and the one freely watering others will himself also be freely watered." -Proverbs 11:25.

Of course,the queen of Sheba also made a big sacrifice in time and effort to visit Solomon. Apparently Sheba was in the area of the present-day Republic of Yemen; so the queen and her camel train traveled well over 1,000 miles to Jerusalem. As Jesus said, "she came from the ends of the earth." Why did the queen of Sheba go to so much trouble? She came primarily "to hear the wisdom of Solomon." -Luke 11:31. First Kings 10:1, 2 says that the queen of Sheba "came to test [Solomon] with perplexing questions . . . [she]began to speak to him all that happened to be close to her heart." How did Solomon respond? "Solomon, in turn, went on to tell her all her matters. There proved to be no matter hidden from the king that he did not tell her." -1 Kings 10:3

Astounded at what she heard and saw, the queen humbly replied: "Happy are these servants of yours who are standing before you constantly, listening to your wisdom!" (1 Kings 10:4-8) She did not pronounce Solomon's servants happy because they were surrounded by opulence-although they were. Rather, Solomon's servants were blessed because they could constantly listen to Solomon's God-given wisdom. What a fine example the queen of Sheba is for Jehovah's people today, who bask in the wisdom of the Creator himself and that of his Son, Jesus Christ!

Also noteworthy was the queen's next comment to Solomon: "May Jehovah your God come to be blessed." (1 Kings 10:9) Evidently,she saw Jehovah's hand in Solomon's wisdom and prosperity. This accords with what Jehovah earlier promised to Israel. 'Keeping my regulations,' he said, "is wisdom on your part and understanding on your part before the eyes of the peoples who will certainly say, "This great nation is undoubtedly a wise and understanding people.' " - Deuteronomy 4:5-7.

Next time:Coming to the Giver of Wisdom

Watchtower, 1999

HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE GOD'S WORD?

Conclusion of A Palmist Who Loved God's Law

Christian youths do well to consider the psalmist's words. Young Christians are under attack today. The Devil would dearly love to corrupt the rising generation of Jehovah's worshipers. Satan's goal is to entice young Christians to give in to fleshly desires and break God's laws. Movies and television programs often reflect the Devil's thinking. The stars of such programs seem attractive and likable; immoral relations between them are portrayed as normal. The message? 'It is all right for unmarried people to have sexual relations as long as they truly love each other.' Sadly, each year a number of young Christians fall prey to such reasoning. Some experience shipwreck of their faith. So the pressure is on! But is the pressure so intense that it is impossible for you young people to cope? By no means! Jehovah has provided a way for young Christians to overcome unwholesome desires. They can resist any weapon the Devil can devise by 'keeping on guard according to God's Word, treasuring up God's sayings in their heart. How much time do you spend in regular personal Bible reading and meditation?

The writer of the 119th Psalm exclaimed: "How I love your law!" (Psalm 119:97) To which law was he referring? To Jehovah's revealed word, including the Mosaic Law code. At first glance some might dismiss the Law code as outdated and wonder how anyone could love it. However, as we meditate on the various features of the Mosaic Law, as did the psalmist, we can appreciate the wisdom behind that Law. Aside from the many prophetic aspects of the Law, there are its sanitary and dietary stipulations, which promoted cleanness and good health. (Leviticus 7:23, 24, 26; 11:2-8) The Law encouraged honesty in business practices and exhorted the Israelites to show empathy to fellow worshipers in need. (Exodus 22:26, 27; 23:6; Leviticus 19:35, 36; Deuteronomy 24:17-21) Judicial decisions were to be made with impartiality. (Deuteronomy 16:19; 19:15) As the writer of Psalm 119 gained experience in life, he no doubt saw how well things turned out for those who applied God's Law, and his fondness for it grew stronger. Similarly today, as Christians have success in applying Bible principles, their love and appreciation for God's Word intensifies.

Next time: A Prince Who Dared To Be Different

Watchtower, 1999

HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE GOD'S WORD?

A Psalmist Who Loved God's Law

The writer of the 119th Psalm certainly had deep appreciation for God's Word. Who wrote that psalm? The writer is not identified in the Bible. From the context, however, we learn some details about him, and we know that his life was not problem free. Some of his acquaintances who were suppose to be worshipers of Jehovah did not share his love for Bible principles. Nevertheless, the psalmist did not allow their attitude to prevent him from doing what was right. (Psalm 119:23) If you live or work with someone who does not respect the Bible standards, you may see similarities between the psalmist's situation and your own.

Although a godly man, the psalmist was by no means self-righteous. He frankly acknowledged his own imperfections. (Psalm 119:5, 67) However, he did not allow sin to control him. "How will a young man cleanse his path?" He asked. His answer: "By keeping on guard according to your word." (Psalm 119:9) Then, underscoring what a powerful force for good God's Word is, the psalmist added: "In my heart I have treasured up your saying, in order that I may not sin against you." (Psalm 119:11) A force that can help us avoid sinning against God is powerful indeed!

Next time: Conclusion of A Psalmist Who Loved God's Law

Watchtower, 1999

HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE GOD'S WORD?

"Form a Longing" for God's Word

As newborn infants, "wrote the apostle Peter, "form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word. (1 Peter 2:2) Just as a baby craves its mother's milk, Christians who are conscious of their spiritual need find exquisite delight in reading God's Word. Is that how you feel? If not, do not despair. You too can cultivate a longing for God's Word.

In order to do so, first discipline yourself to make Bible reading a regular habit, a daily one if possible. (Acts 17:11) You may not be able to spend an hour each day in Bible reading as Nasho Dori did, but quite likely you can set aside some time each day to consider God's Word. Many Christians arise a few minutes early in order to meditate on a Bible passage. what better way could there be to start the day? Others just before retiring. Still others read the Bible at some other convenient time. The important thing is to read the Bible regularly. Then, take a few moments to meditate on what you have read. Let us consider some examples of individuals who benefited from reading and meditating on God's Word.

Next time: A Psalmist Who Loved God's Law

Watchtower, 1999

What Can Be Done About Discouragement?

Discouragement and Relationships

Certain human relationships, either in the family or in the congregation can cause discouragement. For instance, there is the feeling of not being understood. The imperfections of fellow believers may also discourage us. Once again, the Scriptures can be of great help to us.

"The whole association of brothers" worldwide makes up a large spiritual family. (1 Peter 2:17) But the feeling of belonging to a united people can fade when difficulties arise because of personality conflicts. Evidently, first-century Christians were not immune to such problems, since the apostle Paul repeatedly had to remind them to live together in unity. For example, he exhorted two Christian women-Euodia and Syntyche-to resolve their differences. -1 Corinthians 1:10; Ephesians 4:1-3; Philippians 4:2, 3.

If this is the problem, how can we rekindle a sincere love for our brothers and sisters? By reminding ourselves that Christ died for them and that they, like us, have exercised faith in his ransom sacrifice. We can also bear in mind that many of our brothers are prepared to imitate Jesus Christ by risking their lives for us.

Some years ago, in Paris, France, a young Witness did not hesitate to grab hold of a suitcase containing a bomb that had been put outside the Kingdom Hall. He ran down several flights of stairs before throwing it into a fountain, where it exploded. Asked what motivated him to risk his life in this way, he answered: "I realized that our lives were in danger. So I thought it was better for me to die alone that for all of us to be killed." What a blessing it is to have such companions who are ready to follow Jesus' example so closely!

Additionally, we can meditate on the spirit of cooperation that existed among Jehovah's Witnesses who were in the concentration camps during World War II. More recently, our brothers and sisters in Malawi just as faithfully stood their ground as true Christians. Does not the thought that our brothers in the local congregation would act in the same way under adverse circumstances move us to overlook or at least minimize daily tensions and difficulties? If we cultivate the mind of Christ, our everyday relations with fellow worshipers will be a source of refreshment, not discouragement.

Next time: Discouraging Personal Feelings

Watchtower, 1999

What Can Be Done About Discouragement?

Obtaining Better Results

The joy that we draw from our ministry is partly related to the results obtained. How, then, can we have a more productive ministry? Well, we are "fishers of men." (Mark 1:16-18) Fishermen in ancient Israel went fishing at night when they could catch the most fish. We too need to analyze our territory so that we go "fishing" when the majority of the people are at home and are more receptive to our message. This may be in the evening on weekends, or at some other time. According to one traveling overseer, this is practical in areas where people work all day. He notes that evening witnessing often brings excellent results. Telephone or informal witnessing also enables us to reach more people.

Perseverance in the ministry produces good results. In Eastern Europe and in certain African countries, the Kingdom preaching work is progressing well, and this has resulted in fine increases. Similarly, many congregations have been formed in areas long considered unproductive or even in territory covered very frequently. However, what if yours is not producing such results?

Next time: Maintaining a Good Attitude

Watchtower, 1999

What Can Be Done About Discouragement?

Discouragement in Our Evangelizing Work

Jesus Christ was aware of the difficulties associated with the commission to make disciples. (Matthew 28:19, 20) He sent his followers forth as "sheep amidst wolves," knowing that their preaching activity would being persecution upon them. (Matthew 10:16-23) Yet, this was not a reason for them to become discouraged. In fact, God's servants who have prayerfully relied on Jehovah have often been strengthened by persecution. -Acts 4:2--31; 5:41, 42.

Even when Christ's disciples were not suffering intense persecution, they were not always favorably received. (Matthew 10:11-15) Likewise, the preaching work of Jehovah's Witnesses is not always performed with ease today. To many people, belief in God is a personal matter that they do not wish to discuss. Others want nothing to do with a religious organization toward which they have certain prejudices. Without a doubt, indifference, the lack of results, or various other problems can be formidable sources of discouragement. How can these obstacles be overcome?

Next time: Obtaining Better Results

Watchtower, 1999

What Can Be Done About Discouragement?

HOW can a person fight discouragement? This was the question put to several traveling overseers, who regularly visit congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses. Their answers can help us to analyze the causes of discouragement and the remedies for this condition that can affect any Christian.

More than analysis is needed to deal with discouragement, but the symptoms may include a lack of interest in prayer or in personal study, a slacking off in meeting attendance, the absence of enthusiasm, and even a certain coldness toward Christian companions. One of the most telling signs, however, is a drop in zeal for evangelizing. Let us examine the symptoms and consider some remedies.

Next time: Discouragement in Our Evangelizing Work

Watchtower, 1999

"Jehovah Himself Gives Wisdom"

Will You Put Forth the Effort?

A major factor in the pursuit of wisdom is the diligent study of the Bible. This study, though, should be much more than reading simply for the sake of getting information. Purposeful meditation on what we read is an essential part of studying the Scriptures. Gaining wisdom and discernment involves pondering over how we can use what we are learning in solving problems and in making decisions. Acquiring understanding calls for contemplating how the new material fits in with what we already know. Who will deny that such a relative study of the Bible requires time and energetic effort? The investment of time and energy is spent when 'seeking for silver and searching for hid treasures.' Will you 'buy out the opportune time' to do so? -Ephesians 5:15, 16.

Consider what great treasures await us if we with an honest heart dig deep into the Bible. why, we would find "the very knowledge of God" -the sound, stable life-giving knowledge of our Creator! (John 17:3) "The fear of Jehovah" is also a treasure to gain. How valuable this reverential awe of him is! The healthy fear of displeasing him must govern every aspect of our life, adding a spiritual dimension to all that we do. -Ecclesiastes 12:13.

A keen desire to search and dig for spiritual treasured should be burning within us to facilitate our search,Jehovah had provided excellent digging tools-the timely journals of truth The Watchtower and Awake! , as well as other Bible-based publications. (Matthew 24:45-47) For our education in his Word and ways, Jehovah has also provided Christian meetings. We need to attend these regularly, give ear to what is being said, put forth earnest effort to concentrate on and treasure up key thoughts, and think deeply about our relationship with Jehovah. -Hebrews 10:24, 25.

Next time: You Will Not Fail

Watchtower, 1999

ARE YOU FULFILLING YOUR WHOLE OBLIGATION TO GOD!

Fulfill Your Whole Obligation

If we are wise and truly desire to fulfill our whole obligation to God, besides keeping his commandments, we will have reverential fear of displeasing him. Indeed, "the fear of Jehovah is the beginning of wisdom," and those observing his commandments have "good insight." (Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 1:7) Let us therefore act wisely and obey Jehovah in all things. Especially is this vital now, for the King Jesus Christ is present, and the day of judgment by him as God's appointed Judge is near. -Matthew 24:3; 25:31, 32.

Each one of us is now under divine scrutiny. Are we spiritually inclined, or have worldly influences been allowed to weaken our relationship with God? (1 Corinthians 2:10-16; 1 John 2:15-17) Whether young or old, let us do all we can to please our Grand Creator. If we obey Jehovah and keep his commandments, we will reject the vain things of the passing old world. Then we can entertain the hope of everlasting life in God's promised new system of things. (2 Peter 3:13) What grand prospects these are for all who fulfill their whole obligation to God!

Next time: "Jehovah Himself Gives Wisdom"

Watchtower, 1999

ARE YOU FULFILLING YOUR WHOLE OBLIGATION TO GOD!

Aids to Remembering Our Grand Creator

The congregator was in an excellent position to provide guidelines for our remembering our Grand Creator. Jehovah had answered his heartfelt prayers by granting him extraordinary wisdom. ( 1 Kings 3:6-12) Solomon made thorough investigation of the entire scope of human affairs. Moreover, he was divinely inspired to commit his findings to writing so as to benefit others. He wrote: "And besides the fact that the congregator had become wise, he also taught the people knowledge continually, and he pondered and made a thorough search, that he might arrange many proverbs in order. The congregator sought to find the delightful words and the writing of correct words of truth." _ Ecclesiastes 12:9, 10.

The Greek Septuagint rendering of those words reads: "And moreover, because he taught mankind wisdom; that the ear might find what is comely from parables, the preacher made diligent search to find pleasing words and a writing of rectitude-words of truth." (The Septuagint Bible, translated by Charles Thomson) Solomon endeavor d to reach the hearts of his readers with delightful words and truly interesting and worthwhile subjects. Since his words found in the Scriptures are the product of inspiration by holy spirit, we can without reservation accept his finding and wise counsel. - 2Timothy 3:16, 17.

Even in the absence of modern printing methods, there were plenty of books available in Solomon's day. How was such literature to be viewed? He said: "The words of the wise ones are like oxgoads, and just like nails driven in are those indulging in collections of sentences; they have given from one shepherd. As regards anything besides these, my son, take a warning: to the making of many books there is no end, and much devotion to them is wearisome to the flesh." -Ecclesiastes 12:11, 12.

The words of those possessing godly wisdom prove to be like oxgoads. How so? They prod the readers or listeners to make advancement in harmony with the wise words read of heard. Moreover, those who occupy themselves with "collections of sentences," or truly wise and worthwhile sayings are like "nails driven in," or solidly fixed. This may be so because the fine words of such individuals reflect Jehovah's wisdom and can therefore serve to stabilize and support the readers or listeners. If you are a God-fearing parent, should you not make every effort to inculcate such wisdom in the mind and heart of your child? -Deuteronomy 6:4-9.

Why, though, did Solomon say what he did about books? Well, compared with Jehovah's Word, the endless volumes of this world contain mere human reasoning. Much of this thinking reflects the mind of Satan the Devil. (2 Corinthians 4:4) Therefore, "much devotion" to such secular material produces little of lasting value. In fact, a great deal of it can be spiritually detrimental. Like Solomon, let us meditate on what God's Word says about life. This will strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Jehovah. Excessive attention to other books or sources of instruction can wear us out. Especially when such writings are the product of worldly reasoning that conflicts with godly wisdom are they unwholesome and destructive of faith in God and his purposes. So, then, let us remember that the most beneficial writings of Solomon's day and our own are those that reflect the wisdom of the "one shepherd," Jehovah God. He has provided the 66 books of the Holy Scriptures, and to these we should give paramount attention. The Bible and helpful publications of the "faithful slave"enable us to acquire "the very knowledge of God." -Proverbs 2:1-6.

Next time: Our Whole Obligation to God

Watchtower, 1999

ARE YOU FULFILLING YOUR WHOLE OBLIGATION TO GOD!

Weigh Your Decisions Carefully!

Perhaps you are a young person dedicated to Jehovah Rich blessings will be yours if you keep Kingdom interests first in life. (Proverbs 10:22) With prayer and careful planning, you may be able to spend at least your younger years in some form of full-time service-a fine way to show that you remember your Grand Creator. Otherwise, material interests may begin to occupy most of your time and attention. Like people in general, you may marry early in life and go into debt to acquire material things. A lucrative career may absorb much of your time and energy. If you have children, you will have to shoulder family responsibilities for decades. ( 1Timothy 5:8) You may not have forgotten your Grand Creator, but it is wise to realize that your early planning, or lack of it, may set the course for your adult life In later years, you may look back and wish that at least your young adulthood had been more fully spent in sacred service to our Grand Creator. Why not give your prospects to prayerful thought right now, so that you will find satisfaction in your sacred service to Jehovah in your younger years?

Consider another set of circumstances -those of a man who once served as a shepherd of "the flock of God." (1 Peter 5:2, 3) For some reason, he voluntarily relinquished such privileges. True, he has grown older now, and it may be more difficult for him to carry on in God's service. But could it be that he should again reach out for theocratic privileges? What blessings such a man might bring to others if he is able to shoulder more responsibility in the congregation! And since no one lives with regard to himself only, friends and loved ones will rejoice if he is able to increase his service, to God's glory. (Romans 14:7, 8) Most of all, Jehovah will not forget what anyone does in his service. (Hebrews 6:10-12) So, what can help us to remember our Grand Creator?

Next time: Aids to Remembering Our Grand Creator

Watchtower, 1999

ARE YOU FULFILLING YOUR WHOLE OBLIGATION TO GOD!

Is Everything Vanity?

Some may think that the wise man's words are not very encouraging to anybody -young or old. "The greatest vanity!" said the congregator, 'Everything is vanity.' " (Ecclesiastes 12:8) Actually, it is the very height of vanity to ignore the Grand Creator in youth, to grow old without serving him and to have only advanced age to show for a long life. All has been vanity, or emptiness, for such a person, even if he dies with wealth and fame in this world that is lying in the power of the wicked one, Satan the Devil. -1 John 5:19.

Not everything is vanity for those who lay up treasured in heaven as Jehovah's faithful servants. (Matthew 6:19, 20) They have plenty to do in the rewarding work of the Lord, and such labors definitely are not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58) But if we are dedicated Christians, are we keeping busy in God-assigned work in these last days? (2 Timothy 3:1) Or have we settled into a life-style that differs from that of our neighbors in general? They may be associated with various religions and may be quite devout, attending their houses of worship regularly and trying to carry out what their form of worship requires of them. Of course, they are not proclaimers of the Kingdom message. They do not have accurate knowledge of that this is "the time of the end" and have not sense of urgency about the days in which we are living. -Daniel 12:4.

Jesus Christ said of our critical times: "Just as the days of Noah were, so the presence of the Son of man will be. For as they were in those days before the flood, eating and drinking, men marrying and women being given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark; and they took no note until the flood came and swept them all away, so the presence of the Son of man will be." (Matthew 24:37-39) In moderation, there is nothing wrong with eating and drinking and marriage is an arrangement originated by God himself. (Genesis 2:20-24) Yet, if we realize that the normal pursuits of life have become our chief concern, why not make this a matter of prayer? Jehovah can help us to keep Kingdom interests firs, do what is right, and fulfill our obligation to him. -Matthew 6:33; Romans 12:12; 2 Corinthians 13:7.

Next time: Dedication and Our Obligation to God

Watchtower, 1999

ARE YOU FULFILLING YOUR WHOLE OBLIGATION TO GOD!

JEHOVAH supports those who keep remembering him as their Grand Creator. His inspired Word gives them he knowledge needed to be fulling pleasing to him. God's holy spirit guides them in doing the divine will and in "bearing fruit in every good work." (Colossians 1:9, 10) Moreover, Jehovah provides spiritual food and theocratic direction through "the faithful and discreet slave." (Matthew 24:45-47) In many ways, then, God's people have heaven's blessing as they serve Jehovah and carry out the vital work of preaching the good news of the Kingdom. -Mark 13:10.

True Christians are happy to be occupied in sacred service to Jehovah. Yet, some efforts are meaningless. At times, for instance, dedicated Christians may wonder if their conscientious efforts are really worthwhile. When reflecting on family study and other activities, questions like these my well arise in the mind of a family head: 'Is Jehovah really pleased with what we are doing? Are we fulfilling our whole obligation to God? The congregator's wise words can help to answer such questions.

Next time: Is Everything Vanity?

Watchtower, 1999

REMEMBER YOUR GRAND CREATOR!

Fine Examples From the Past

Many young people of the Bible record set fine examples as those who remembered their Grand Creator. From early life onward Jacob's son, Joseph remembered the Creator. When Potihar's wife tempted Joseph to engage in sexual immorality with her, he firmly refused and stated: "How could I commit this great badness and actually sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9) He Levite Samuel remembered his Creator not only in his childhood, but throughout his life. (1 Samuel 1:22-28; 2:18; 3:1-5) Youthful David of Bethlehem certainly kept his Creator in mind. His trust in God was evident when he faced the Philistine giant Goliath and declared: "You are coming to me with a sword and a spear and with a javelin, but I am coming to you with the name of Jehovah of armies, the God of the battle lines of Israel, whom you have taunted. This day Jehovah will surrender you into my hand, and I shall certainly strike you down and remove your head off you; . . .and people of all the earth will know that neither with sword not with spear does Jehovah save, because to Jehovah belongs the battle, and he must give you men into our hand." Soon, Goliath was dead, and the Philistines took to flight. -1 Samuel 17:45-51.

Another young person who remembered the Grand Creator was a captive Israelite girl. She gave such a fine witness to the wife of Syrian army chief Naaman that he went to God's prophet, was cured of leprosy, and became a worshiper of Jehovah. (2 Kings 5:1-19) Young King Josiah courageously promoted the pure worship of Jehovah. (2 Kings 22:1-23:25) But the finest example of one who remembered his Grand Creator while still tender of age was Jesus of Nazareth. Consider what happened when he was 12 years old. His parents took him to Jerusalem for the Passover. On the return trip, they noted that Jesus was missing; so they turned back to search for him. On the third day, they found him discussing Scriptural questions with teachers at the temple. Responding to his mother's anxious inquiry, Jesus asked: "Why did you have to go looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in the house of my Father?" (Luke 2:49) It was beneficial for Jesus to obtain information of spiritual value at the temple, 'the house of his Father.' Today, the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses is an excellent place to acquire accurate Knowledge of our Grand Creator.

Next time: Remember Jehovah Now!

Watchtower, 1999

The Bible Answers Vital Questions

What God Expects of Us

Clearly, then, we can have confidence in the fulfillment of God's purpose to have the earth inhabited forever by obedient humans. If we are to be among those privileged to live permanently on earth, we must do what wise King Solomon said: "Fear the true God and keep his commandments. For this is the whole obligation of man." -Ecclesiastes 12:13; John 17:3.

Living in harmony with Jehovah's purpose for mankind means getting to know the true God and conforming to his requirements as set out in the Holy Scriptures. If we do this now we can entertain the hope of everlasting life on a paradise earth, in which we will never cease to learn new things about God and his wonderful creation. (Luke 23:43) What a thrilling prospect!

Many who search for a purpose in life turn to the Bible and find great happiness right now. For instance, a young man named Alfred could find no meaning in life. The involvement of religion in war disgusted him, and he was upset at the hypocrisy and corruption in politics. Alfred visited Indians of North America in the hope of gaining enlightenment about life's purpose, only to return to Europe disappointed. In despair, he turned to drugs and wild music. However, a regular and careful examination of the Bible later helped Alfred to recognize the true purpose of life and to find contentment.

Next time: A Dependable Light to Our Roadway

Watchtower, 1999

The Bible Answers Vital Questions

Perhaps now more than at any other time in mankind's history, people are trying to find out what life is all about. Many ask themselves, 'Why am I living? How can I find meaning in my life? Various circumstances prompt them to raise these questions.

An individual's life may be shattered by a personal tragedy. For instance, early in 1998 a 12-year old girl living in Bavaria, Germany, was kidnapped and murdered. One year later, her mother admitted that she spends each day searching for a purpose in life-to no avail. Some young people are moved to wonder about the meaning of life. They search for security, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging, only to despair at the widespread hypocrisy and corruption. Other individuals build their lives around a career, but they discover that power, prestige and possessions fail to satisfy the inner yearning to find reason for their existence.

Whatever moves a person to inquire about the purpose of life, this question warrants a serious and satisfying answer. Once again, the Bible can be of great benefit. It identifies Jehovah as a God of purpose, one who has sound reason for everything he does. We ask, would you construct a house without having a reason? Likely not, since building a house requires a huge investment of money and can take months or years. You build a house so that you or someone else can live in it. The same logic can be applied to Jehovah. He did not go to all the trouble of creating earth and the living things upon it without having a reason, a purpose. (Compare Hebrews 3:4) What is his purpose for the earth?

The prophecy of Isaiah identifies Jehovah as "the true God, the Former of the earth and the Maker of it." Indeed, he is "the One who firmly established [this earth], who did not create it simply for nothing, who formed it even to be inhabited." (Isaiah 45:18) Yes, ever since the earth was created, it has been Jehovah's purpose to have it inhabited. Says Psalm 115:16: "As regards the heavens, to Jehovah the heavens belong, but the earth he has given to the sons of men." Thus the Bible shows that Jehovah created the earth to be inhabited by obedient humans, who would care for it. -Genesis 1:27, 28.

Did the rebellion of Adam and Eve cause Jehovah to change his purpose? No. How can we be so sure? Well, consider this point: The Bible was written thousands of years after the rebellion in Eden. If God had abandoned his original purpose, why is that not mentioned in the Bible? The obvious conclusion is that his purpose for the earth and mankind remains unchanged.

Moreover, Jehovah's purpose never fails. Through Isaiah, God provides this assurance: "Just as the pouring rain descends, and the snow , from the heavens and does not return to that place, unless it actually saturates the earth and makes it produce and sprout, and seed is actually given to the sower and bread to the eater, so my word that goes forth from my mouth will prove to be. It will not return to me without results, but It will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that which I have sent it. -Isaiah 55:10, 11.

Note: In Islam or anywhere, women should not be beaten. In 1Peter 3:1, 2, 7- (1) In like manner, you wives,be in subjection to your own husbands, in order that, if any are not obedient to the word, they may be won without a word through the conduct of [their wives], (2) because of having been eyewitnesses of your chaste conduct together with deep respect. (7) You husbands, continue dwelling in like manner with them according to knowledge, assigning them honor as to a weaker vessel, the feminine one, since you are also heirs with them,of the undeserved favor of life, in order for your prayers not to be hindered. Any country who still beats his wife is not honoring or following Jehovah's God's Words in the Bible. For a man to beat his wife is only showing his cowardice and is not a real man at all. I have been in an abused situation. They spouse who abuses his wife or child NEVER!! changes. It is a sickness that the abuser does not think he/she has. Women should not beat on their husbands/children either. They are no better.

Next time: What God Expects of Us

Watchtower, 1999

The Bible Answers Vital Questions

Shortly after the creation of our first parents, Adam and Eve, a powerful spirit creature approached the woman and challenged Jehovah's truthfulness and the rightfulness of his sovereignty. (Genesis 3:1-5) This creature, Satan the Devil, later alleged that humans would not stay loyal to God under adversity. (Job 2:1-5) How did Jehovah react to this situation? He allowed for the passing of time so that it would become evident that humans cannot successfully direct their steps independent of him. (Jeremiah 10:23) When creatures act contrary to God's laws and principles, the result is sin, which produces injurious conditions. (Ecclesiastes 8:9; 1 John 3:4) Despite these adverse circumstances, however, Jehovah knew that some humans could maintain integrity to him.

Since that woeful rebellion in Eden, some 6,000 years have elapsed. Is that too long? Jehovah could have destroyed Satan and his supporters centuries ago. But has it not been better to wait until every conceivable doubt about the rightness of Jehovah's sovereignty and the integrity of humans to him is dispelled? Is it not true of present judicial systems that a court case to prove who is right and who is wrong may take years?

In view of the importance of the issues facing Jehovah and mankind-universal sovereignty and the integrity of humans-how wise it was of God to allow for time to pass! Now we see clearly what happens when humans ignore God's laws and take charge of their own affairs. The result is widespread evil. And that is why so many innocent people suffer today.

Happily, though, God's Word indicates that wickedness will not last forever. In fact, Jehovah will soon put an end to evil and to those who cause it. "As regards the wicked," Says Proverbs 2:22, "they will be cut off from the very earth; and as for the treacherous, they will be torn away from it. On the other hand, those faithful to God can look forward to a time, now near at hand, when "death will be no more,neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore." -Revelation 21:4.

So,then, the Bible clearly explains why the innocent suffer. It also assures us that evil and suffering will soon end. As we experience life's present hardships, however, we need the answer to another vital question.

Next time: What is the Purpose of Life?

Watchtower, 1999

The Bible Answers Vital Questions of Our Day

IS THE Bible relevant today? For the answer to be yes, surely this age-old book would have to offer its readers guidance on topics of current interest and relevance. Does the Bible provide beneficial counsel on subjects that are of real importance in today's world?

Let us take a look at two current issues. In doing so, we will examine what the Bible says about these matters.

Why Does God Allow Suffering?

In view of the conditions in the world today, one of the most commonly asked questions is: Why does God allow innocent people to suffer? This question is justified, since more and more people are being affected by violent crime, corruption, genocide personal tragedy, and so forth. For example, in June 1998 ab express train crashed into a bridge in norther Germany, killing more than a hundred passengers. Even experienced medics and firemen who attended to the injured and the dead were upset by the carnage. A bishop of the Evangelical Church asked: "Dear God, why did this have to happen?" The bishop himself gave no answer.

Experience shows that when innocent people suffer evil without getting an explanation about the cause, they sometimes become embittered. Here is where the Bible can help, for it explains why innocent people are subjected to wickedness and suffering.

When Jehovah God created the earth and everything on it, he did not intend that humankind be troubled by wickedness and suffering. How can we be sure? Because upon completing his creation, "God saw everything he had made and, look! it was very good." (Genesis 1:31) Ask yourself, "if I were to observe something wicked, would I pronounce it "very good"?' Of course not! In the same way, when God pronounced everything 'very good," there was not trace of wickedness on earth. So when and how did wickedness start?

Next time: Conclusion of Why Does God Allow Suffering?

Watchtower, 1999